Just weeks after being diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer, CNS B-cell Lymphoma, Doug’s life was tragically cut short.
In June 2026, Doug was diagnosed with CNS B-cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive brain cancer, at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
Having beaten bladder cancer five years earlier, Doug faced this new diagnosis with the same determination, positivity and fighting spirit that defined him. Sadly, despite his courage and the unwavering support of those around him, Doug passed away just four weeks later, leaving an enormous void in the lives of his family and friends.
Throughout this, Doug remained positive, resilient and full of the fun-loving spirit that those who knew him will always remember.
Determined to create a lasting legacy in Doug’s memory, his family came together to raise funds for CNS B-cell Lymphoma research at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
At the heart of their fundraising efforts was Ricky Blackmore, who took on an incredible 300-mile cycling challenge in August. Riding every mile in memory of Doug, Ricky’s dedication and determination inspired supporters to donate an amazing £2,010.
The fundraising continued: on the day of Doug’s celebration of his life family and friends very kindly donated monies, and the grandchildren played a special role by organising a loom band, face painting and temporary tattoos sale at Doug and Lesley’s BBQ. Doug was their hero and always will be, making it especially meaningful for them to play their part in honouring his memory.
Alongside proceeds from the sale of Doug’s favourite tablet and a generous donation from the staff at Aboyne Medical Practice, where Lesley works, these incredible efforts raised a remarkable £4,411.55 to support vital research into this devastating disease.
To mark their incredible fundraising achievement, the charity’s Supporter Engagement Officer, Louise Bone, joined the family at Bennachie for a cheque presentation. Bennachie holds a very special place in Doug’s family’s hearts, making it the perfect setting to celebrate the remarkable amount raised in his memory. Surrounded by family and friends, it was a special opportunity to honour Doug’s legacy and reflect on the impact this support will have on future research into CNS B-cell Lymphoma.
Reflecting on their fundraising, Doug’s family said: “We feel very strongly about supporting research into CNS B-cell Lymphoma so other families don’t have to go through the pain Doug and we went through. Research is the beginning of the cure. It needs to be diagnosed in minutes, not weeks, and the best treatment given sooner. I hope this amazing donation focuses on creating change and saves a life.”
We are enormously grateful to Lesley, Victoria, Ricky, Sam, their family and everyone who supported their fundraising. Their generosity will help advance vital research and create hope for patients and families facing this diagnosis in the future.
In memory of Doug – a proud grandad, family man and friend whose legacy will live on through the lives he continues to touch.